Our Story

For more than 40 years, Nova House has been a source of safety, support, and hope for individuals and families in the Interlake region.

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Founded in 1985 as the Selkirk Co-operative on Abuse Against Women Inc., Nova House began as a grassroots effort led by a group of passionate women who recognized the need for services and support for women and children experiencing violence. We proudly acknowledge our founders—Lorna Nash, Doreen Cooper-Thomas, Cheryl Kaziw, Marilyn Randle, and Marlene Sandison—whose vision and determination laid the foundation for the organization we are today.

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What began as a small community-based initiative quickly grew into a vital resource for those seeking safety, support, and a path forward. In its early years, Nova House operated from a modest office space, providing counselling, advocacy, referrals, and crisis support to women and families throughout the region. As demand for services increased, so did the organization's capacity to respond.

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Building Safety and Support

In 1987, Nova House opened its first residential program, creating a safe place for women and children fleeing violence. Over the following decades, the organization expanded its services to meet the evolving needs of the community, providing crisis intervention, outreach, counselling, advocacy, and residential support.

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As awareness of domestic, family, and gender-based violence grew, Nova House continued to adapt and respond. The organization relocated and expanded several times, each move reflecting a commitment to ensuring that individuals and families could access safe, compassionate, and effective support when they needed it most.

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In 2017, Nova House moved into a purpose-built facility in Selkirk, marking an important milestone in the organization's history and providing an enhanced environment for healing, support, and recovery.

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Evolving to Meet Community Needs

Over the years, Nova House witnessed a growing reality: while emergency support is critical, long-term safety and stability often depend on access to safe and affordable housing.

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As community needs changed, Nova House evolved its service model. Today, the organization has transitioned from operating a traditional emergency shelter to providing transitional and supportive housing options that help individuals and families build secure and independent futures.

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Nova House currently operates seven transitional housing units within the community, primarily serving women and children who have experienced domestic or family violence. These homes provide both short-term and longer-term housing opportunities, helping residents move from crisis toward stability, healing, and independence.

 

Looking Ahead

In March 2026, Nova House entered a new chapter with the purchase of 383 Eveline Street in Selkirk (formally the Merchant Hotel). This significant redevelopment project will create 17 additional transitional housing suites offering both short- and long-term housing options for individuals and families affected by gender-based violence and housing insecurity.

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This expansion reflects Nova House's ongoing commitment to addressing one of the most urgent challenges facing our communities—access to safe, stable, and affordable housing. By increasing housing options and strengthening support services, Nova House continues to create opportunities for people to rebuild their lives with dignity, confidence, and hope.

 

While our programs have evolved over the past four decades, our purpose remains unchanged: to provide safety, support, and opportunities for individuals and families to thrive free from violence and instability.

 

Twice Over Thrift Store

Nova House also operates Twice Over, a community thrift store located in Selkirk. More than just a store, Twice Over helps fund Nova House programs and services while providing affordable shopping opportunities for community members.

 

Through the generosity of donors, volunteers, staff, and shoppers, Twice Over contributes directly to the work of Nova House. Individuals and families accessing our services may receive vouchers for clothing, household items, and other essentials as they establish safe and stable homes.

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Every donation, purchase, and volunteer hour helps strengthen Nova House's ability to support individuals and families on their journey toward safety, healing, and independence.